The Graduate Diploma of Science (Laboratory Based) is a postgraduate qualification designed to provide graduates with advanced, hands-on technical skills and theoretical knowledge required to perform a broad range of scientific tests and analyses across multiple industry sectors. The course develops competency in applying laboratory technologies to conduct routine and complex scientific-technical tests, processing and interpreting data, reporting results, using laboratory application software, calibrating and maintaining instruments, and monitoring the quality of test results. It typically spans one year of full-time study and may be offered through universities or registered training organisations (RTOs) under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as either a higher education graduate diploma or a nationally recognised vocational qualification. Disciplines covered can include microbiology, molecular biology, histology, tissue culture, microscopy, clinical biochemistry, haematology, immunology, and environmental science, depending on the stream or specialisation chosen.

This course is designed for two key cohorts: science graduates who wish to gain practical, laboratory-based skills to complement their theoretical degree and enter professional scientific employment, and existing laboratory workers seeking to formalise their skills or advance into more senior technical roles. Employers who recruit graduates from this qualification span public hospitals and private diagnostic pathology laboratories, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, environmental testing organisations, food science and safety laboratories, government research agencies such as the CSIRO and state health departments, and university research facilities. The qualification is well-suited to those seeking a practical bridge between academic science study and the demands of working in Australia's growing life sciences industry.

Entry requirements vary depending on whether the course is delivered as a higher education graduate diploma through a university or as a nationally recognised vocational qualification through a TAFE or RTO. For university-level Graduate Diplomas of Science, applicants typically need to have completed an undergraduate bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as biochemistry, microbiology, biomedical science, human biology, chemistry, laboratory technology, medical science, or a related STEM field. Academic performance at the bachelor's level is assessed as part of the application process. Some programs also require applicants to demonstrate relevant work experience and may ask for a CV, portfolio, or personal statement. In cases where a specific stream — such as Medical Laboratory Science — requires accreditation by the Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS), admissions may be conducted on a case-by-case basis to verify that prerequisite undergraduate subjects have been completed to the required standard.

For vocationally delivered diploma and graduate diploma programs through TAFEs and registered training organisations, the standard entry pathway is a Certificate IV or higher qualification in a relevant science or laboratory discipline, or demonstrated equivalent skills and technical knowledge and employment experience in a laboratory setting. Literacy and numeracy skills at approximately Year 12 level are typically expected. Some programs with health sector components may also require applicants to comply with immunisation requirements, a federal police check, or a Working with Children Check before commencing professional placement. International students and non-native English speakers are generally required to submit approved English proficiency test results — such as IELTS or TOEFL — meeting minimum score thresholds set by the admitting institution.